Describes phenomena that can be effectively illustrated using microcomputers, techniques used to create these illustrations, and techniques used for displaying them in regular classrooms and over an instructional television network. Also describes microcomputer features required to apply the techniques, providing comments on the suitability of…

The basic principles of computing are explained and a discussion of how a computer performs its "logical" functions is presented. A dictionary of some computer terms is provided. (MLW)

Flexible manufacturing systems (FMS) are systems that can be programed to alter their procedures to suit varying production requirements. Use of and trends related to these systems in the United States and foreign countries are discussed. A detailed diagram of a hypothetical FMS is provided. (JN)

Interactive Simulation Language (ISL) is a highly interactive and graphics-oriented language. ISL use in senior design course and introductory system modeling/system behavior course is discussed (including instructional strategies, self-administered instruction, and problem assignment). A description of ISL (including block library and main menu)…

Discussion of the use of microcomputers in a cooperative public library system notes library management applications in areas of clerical work, word processing, book ordering, inventories, special collection catalogs, mailing lists, and a union list of serials. (EJS)

Describes a computer program which allows students to specify rather arbitrary sets of poles and zeros for the transfer function of a linear system. The computer evaluates/plots the systems impulse and step responses individually and displays them in reduced form along with the pole-zero plot. (JN)

Describes a junior high school English teacher's experience with using 10 word processors, which encouraged students to write more and to write better. (Available from: Modern Learning Publishers, Inc., 6517 Liggett, Oakland, CA 94611, $14.) (AEA)

A retrospective conversion tool permitting libraries with a microfiche reader and Apple microcomputer to convert bibliographic and holdings files to computer-readable tapes in MARC format is described. The basic process, library costs and MARC tape costs, use of system in Wisconsin, and user's view of the system are noted. (EJS)

Generation of book catalog of computer programs--"Bechtel Catalog of Computer Programs" (BECCAT)--by a corporate data processing library used by a multinational corporation is examined in terms of justification, entries, production, and distribution. Sample program entry format, library program control form, and log entry data are…

Describes the computer literacy program at Vassar College. Included are discussions of the computer literacy program core course, literacy program follow-up courses, types of projects in which computers were used, role of the program coordinator, as well as comments on future endeavors (such as grant support for faculty/student computer…

Discusses the use of microcomputers at a middle school in Wayland, Mass., including activities in the computer room and formal computer instruction in grade six. Also discusses rationale for approaches taken, such as working with a variety of microcomputers and computer use in different subject areas. (JN)

Describes laboratory workstations which provide direct connection for monitoring and control of analytical instruments such as pH meters, spectrophotometers, temperature, and chromatographic instruments. This is accomplished through analog/digital and digital/analog converters for analog signals and input/output devices for on/off signals.…

Describes experiences at Duke University in teaching mathematics using computer graphics. Includes comments on the software library, slide shows, assessment of activities, teaching of calculus and differential equations, and various graphics devices for instructional purposes. (JN)

Described are several approaches, used by park and recreation departments, to incorporating the use of computers for administrative purposes. Cost-cutting measures for program implementation and computer maintenance are also described. (CJ)

The proliferation of personal computers in home/schools and use of computer chips in educational toys has led to a rethinking of ideas about education and fun, and ways the two can combine to provide youngsters with enjoyable and profitable learning experiences. Provides examples of commercially available computer-oriented educational toys/games.…